If you recently got hurt in a Charleston, SC, motorcycle accident due to someone else’s wrongdoing, Joe Cunningham Law can help you secure the compensation you need for your recovery.

Joe Cunningham is dedicated to defending the rights of motorcycle collision victims across South Carolina. As a former U.S. Congressman, Joe is guided by the “people-first” approach, with a commitment to open communication that ensures you’ll never feel like just a case number. The moment you come to Joe for help, you’ll know you’re a valued client whose best interests are at the heart of everything he does.

Take the first step on the path to the recovery you deserve. Schedule a free consultation with a Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer today.

What Are the South Carolina Motorcycle Laws?

Understanding South Carolina’s motorcycle laws is crucial for all motorcyclists, especially those who have been hurt in motorcycle accidents. The following laws not only govern riders’ rights and responsibilities, they also define essential legal requirements that could significantly affect the outcome of an injury case:

Rights and Duties of Operators

Operators of motorcycles have the same rights and are subject to the same responsibilities as other vehicle drivers, except for any special laws or regulations that do not apply to motorcyclists because they can’t.

Manner of Operation

Operators can ride only on the permanent seat of a motorcycle. Riders must sit astride their seats, facing forward, with one leg on each side of the motorcycle. Operators must not carry any package or article that prevents them from keeping both hands on the handlebars. And riders must not attach themselves or their bikes to any other vehicles on the road.

Carrying Passengers

Riders may only carry passengers if their motorcycles are designed to carry them and have appropriate passenger seats and footrests. No passenger may ride in a position that interferes with the operation or control of a motorcycle or an operator’s view.

Use of Lanes

Motorcycle riders are entitled to the full use of a traffic lane. This does not apply when two motorcyclists operate abreast in a single lane. Motorcyclists must not overtake and pass other vehicles in the same lane, operate between lanes of traffic, or operate more than two abreast in a single lane.

Equipment

Motorcycles carrying passengers not in sidecars or enclosed cabs must have appropriate footrests for those passengers. Motorcycles also need rearview mirrors that provide an ample rearward view.

Safety Gear

Operators and passengers under 21 must wear protective helmets. These helmets must be equipped with either neck or chin straps and be reflective on both sides. Operators under 21 must also wear appropriate goggles or a face shield. Operators of motorcycles with adequate windscreens are exempt from the requirement to wear goggles or face shields.